Australian design practice, Hames Sharley, has appointed two new Senior Architects, Christian Gerdes and Toby Hitzman, to its Melbourne and Perth studios, respectively. Both architects join Hames Sharley with extensive experience in large-scale commercial projects and specialist knowledge in Building Information Modelling (BIM) and will work with their teams to meet growing client demand in these areas.

Christian Gerdes joins Hames Sharley’s Melbourne studio, bringing over 20 years’ experience in design and construction to the role. With extensive expertise across retail, commercial, education and hospital projects and in-depth understanding of modern technologies, Gerdes’ new role will comprise of mixed-use, commercial and defence developments, mentoring and signals the return to growth in the Melbourne market.

Gerdes joins Hames Sharley from Mitsubishi Jisho Sekkei in Japan, where he worked as a BIM Specialist and Architect for over three years.

Hames Sharley Victorian Studio Leader, Elise Miles Simonovski, said that Christian Gerdes’ specialist technological knowledge will help expand the team’s digital capabilities.

“We are delighted to welcome someone of Christian’s calibre to the Melbourne studio. As a seasoned architect with extensive technical expertise and specialist BIM knowledge, Christian is a tremendous asset to the team and our staff and clients will benefit from his wealth of knowledge.”

Joining the Perth studio, Toby Hitzman brings to the role 14 years’ experience in the design & construction industry with strong expertise in high-end residential and commercial developments. With proven success in delivering large-scale landmark projects, Hitzman will focus on Stage 2 of the TL Robertson Library Refurbishment & Upgrade and work closely with the Contractor & Consultants throughout Design Development and into Practical Completion.”

Hames Sharley Perth Studio Leader, Brook McGowan, said that Toby Hitzman will be responsible for leading landmark projects as the team continues its steady growth.

“As development across WA expands, it is important that we have the right senior architects in place to fuel Hames Sharley’s growth and continue to meet client demand. Toby’s experience on major projects such as Optus Stadium, Bayswater Station and the Perth Station & Northbridge Link Masterplan is an advantage for Hames Sharley and we welcome him to the team.”

Both strategic appointments will strengthen Hames Sharley’s design capabilities and be instrumental in the firm’s delivery of design excellence nationally and within the local Melbourne and Perth markets.